Southern Cross University

What you'll study

This program combines core life-science disciplines with practical laboratory training and a research-focused capstone. You will study human anatomy and physiology, cell and molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology and immunology, pharmacology and pathophysiology. Quantitative skills are developed through biostatistics, experimental design and bioinformatics units.

Practical coursework emphasises contemporary laboratory techniques such as microscopy, cell culture basics, molecular methods (PCR, gel electrophoresis), basic histology and clinical laboratory procedures. Later-year units focus on applied topics such as medical microbiology, immunopathology, toxicology and advanced molecular methods, and include a supervised research or major project that integrates experimental and analytical skills.

The degree typically includes a mix of lectures, tutorials, laboratory classes and project work, with opportunities to choose elective units that broaden expertise (for example in environmental health, neuroscience or public health) and options to articulate into honours and postgraduate study.

Entry requirements

Southern Cross University expects applicants to have completed secondary education or an equivalent qualification. Domestic applicants are usually assessed on a tertiary entrance rank (such as ATAR) or alternative recognised qualifications and may be considered through pathway or mature-age entry routes.

Recommended subject background includes senior secondary biology or chemistry and a sound level of numeracy. Applicants without recent science study but with relevant experience may be considered through alternative entry pathways.

International applicants must meet the university's English language requirements; documented proof of proficiency (for example an English test) is required if English is not the first language. Specific entry criteria and pathway options are published by the university and should be checked at the time of application.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Bachelor of Biomedical Science are prepared for laboratory and technical roles in clinical laboratories, biomedical research institutes, biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, diagnostic services and public health laboratories. Common entry-level roles include laboratory technician, research assistant, pathology collector (with additional certification), quality control analyst and roles in product support or regulatory affairs within life-science companies.

The degree is also a pathway to further professional and research training: many graduates progress to honours, postgraduate research degrees (such as a Master by research or PhD) or professional health programs where eligible. The program provides foundational knowledge sought by employers in clinical trials, pathology, environmental testing, forensic science and laboratory management.

Why study at Southern Cross University

Southern Cross University offers a teaching environment with relatively small class sizes and hands-on laboratory training designed to build practical competencies as well as theoretical understanding. Students benefit from research-active staff in the health and life-sciences fields and opportunities to undertake a research project under academic supervision.

The university emphasises industry-relevant skills and provides connections to local and regional laboratories and health services for networking and practical experience. Graduates leave with laboratory technique, data-analysis and communication skills that support employment in a range of biomedical and allied sectors or further study.